Turn innovation into real-world impact
A2I accelerates researchers and innovators within government research organisations to commercialise their ideas and build credibility for investment.
Applications are now open and will be closing on the 29th of November.
Interested in finding out whether A2I is right for you? Book a short introductory call with the team to explore how the programme could support you.
What is A2I?
Accelerate to Investment (A2I) is a 5-month hybrid programme designed to support researchers and innovators within government research organisations to develop credible, investment-ready spinout opportunities.
A2I enables high-quality spinouts to emerge faster by providing participants with the structure, support and investor insight needed to explore investment pathways with confidence.
The programme supports both aspiring founders and the organisations they work within to engage with private capital successfully. It enables founders to turn their innovations into impact, build ventures that can change lives at scale and create public value while maintaining institutional alignment and governance.
A2I is designed for
Researchers driven by sustained impact
You have developed knowledge, technology or an innovation with the potential to address a real-world challenge. You want your work to reach the people, markets or systems that could benefit from it, and you're exploring how commercialisation could help make that happen.
Innovators ready to explore what's possible
You can see the potential in your innovation, but turning it into a commercial opportunity raises new questions. You may be unsure how to validate demand, identify customers or navigate the risks involved.
Professionals exploring a route to market
You are considering what the next chapter of your research or innovation could look like. You want to understand what building a venture involves, develop the skills to move forward and connect with people who can help you navigate the journey.
When joining A2I, you’ll benefit from
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Learn how to translate technical expertise into a clear, credible story that resonates with investors, without oversimplifying your innovation or overstating claims.
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Throughout the programme, you will engage in structured pitch practice and workshops with investors and commercial experts. These sessions are designed to build confidence, demystify expectations and provide constructive, honest feedback in a supportive environment.
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You will receive regular one-to-one enablement from an experienced Growth Enabler, focused on execution, decision-making and prioritisation. This support helps you navigate uncertainty, make progress efficiently and avoid common pitfalls.
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The programme culminates in investor engagement at a Demo Day, supported by structured preparation. You will graduate with a 90-day forward plan that sets out realistic next steps and continued access to the A2I ecosystem for ongoing connection and support.
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Your journey through A2I is anchored by a series of in-person milestones designed to build momentum, deepen capability, and keep you progressing with clarity and focus. The programme begins with a two-day, in-person Bootcamp on the 24th and 25th of March, bringing the cohort together to align on objectives and set a strong foundation. This is followed by a series of half-day, in-person workshops on 23rd of April, 2nd of June, and 9th of July, each designed to tackle critical stages of your venture’s development and ensure consistent progress throughout the programme.
Please note: while these dates reflect the current programme schedule, they may be subject to change. Any updates will be communicated well in advance.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply to A2I you:
Are exploring commercialising a knowledge asset that originated from within a UK Public Sector Research Organisation (PSRO).
Eligible organisations are listed in the GOTT “Who We Work With” section on gov.uk. This includes internal teams working on projects that haven’t spun out yet, existing spinouts looking to grow, or startups commercialising IP that has originated from a PSRO.
Have organisational support for developing the knowledge asset you are working on.
Have an interest in raising investment to support future growth or development.
Can commit to at least one day per week working on your commercialisation & investment proposition (programme engagement will average 1-2 hours per week).
Are actively exploring commercialisation or spin-out as a route to market (even if the business model or viability is still being shaped).
How to Apply
Submit a short application form
Complete an online application outlining your innovation, motivation and organisational context.
Invitation to interview
If shortlisted, you will be invited to a 30-minute conversation with the programme team to explore your goals, context and expectations.
Application review and decision
Following interviews, applications are reviewed holistically. This stage typically takes up to two weeks.
Confirmation and onboarding
Successful applicants receive a formal offer and begin onboarding ahead of the programme start.
Want to prepare before applying? You can view the full application questions in advance to help you understand what to expect and prepare your answers. Please note that this is for reference only and is not an application form. To submit your official application, you’ll still need to complete the application form.
Listen to Our Podcast Series
Transitioning from research to commercialisation comes with unique challenges. In our podcast series we explore the mindset shifts and barriers innovators face, offering practical perspectives to help you take the next step towards entrepreneurship.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
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Participants typically commit around one day per week alongside existing responsibilities.
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Yes. A2I is designed to work with senior-level support and institutional alignment.
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IP remains with the originating organisation. A2I does not take equity or claim ownership of participant innovations.
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A2I is a fully funded programme, meaning there is no participation fee. However, we do require participants to engage in sessions.
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A2I does not guarantee investment. The programme is designed to equip you with the tools, insights and confidence to pitch credibly to investors and engage effectively with the investment ecosystem.
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The programme is best suited to participants who have moved beyond a conceptual idea and have some early traction or validation. The programme focuses on building investment readiness rather than developing ideas from scratch.
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You will need to submit a short online form followed by a brief interview if shortlisted.
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Participants gain access to an alumni network, continued ecosystem connections and onward support pathways.
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Yes! You can view the full application questions in advance here to help you understand what to expect and prepare your answers.
Please note that this is for reference only and does not count as an application. To officially apply for the programme, you’ll still need to complete and submit the online application form.